Wasps are a nuisance that unfortunately come hand in hand with warm spring days. Here are a few tips to help minimise their presence so that we can enjoy the outdoors in peace:

• Clean up your food waste: whether you’re having your lunch outdoors or enjoying a barbecue at one of CERN’s picnic areas, make sure you quickly clean up your food waste, especially sugary or fragrant drinks, which are especially attractive to wasps.
• If you see a wasp nest: call the CERN Fire and Rescue Service (CFRS) on +41 22 76 74848, or submit a ticket on ServiceNow with supporting photos, details of the location and size of the nest and any other useful observations. The CFRS will then remove it with due care. Please do not use insecticides to get rid of wasps. Not only are these harmful chemicals forbidden at CERN, but they also indiscriminately harm bees, insects and the larger animals that feed on them.
• If approached by a wasp: stay calm and stay still! Wasps are easily threatened by fast or erratic movements, and most often sting when agitated.
• If, despite these measures, you get stung: you can call the CFRS on +41 22 76 74444 for assistance and guidance. In addition, you can visit the CERN Medical Service infirmary team on the ground floor of Building 57. They can help manage the pain or remove any embedded stings.

Enjoy the great outdoors, have fun, but don’t get stung!